By A Correspondent- In a statement Friday, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said 91 people were arrested for various offences in Harare, Harare South and Chitungwiza in connection with the August 16 demonstration which the police had earlier prohibited.

He said:

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police informs the nation that following the issuance of a prohibition notice by the regulating authority for Harare Central District, the MDC-Alliance filed an urgent Chamber application with the High Court.

The High Court ruled against the holding of the demonstration, but the MDC-Alliance activists went on to gather at Africa Unity Square and other parts of Harare central business district (CBD) in defiance of the court ruling.

Some of the youths went on to engage in confrontational acts which included threats, intimidation and disruption of the smooth flow of traffic in the CBD. The police moved in and dispersed the unlawful gathering. In the process, 91 people were arrested for various offences in Chitungwiza, Harare central business district and Harare South.

We have also noted with concern falsehoods by some online publications that the police shot into the crowd, killing two people, which is false. No live rounds were used by the police. No one was shot or injured by police through firearms.

The police are firm on the ground to ensure that law and order is maintained. We are appealing to the members of the public to remain calm and peaceful. They should continue to conduct day to day activities in a peaceful manner. We want to assure our citizens that the police stand ready to protect Zimbabweans and visitors . . .